Transition of Care: Helping Teens Become More Involved in Their Healthcare

First published December 2020
Updated February 2026

Adolescence brings many changes, including a shift in how caregivers and children relate to each other. One change that isn’t talked about often is the child becoming more involved in their own medical care and eventually switching from a pediatrician to an adult doctor. Just like learning to drive or learning how to do the laundry, it’s a good idea to prepare teenagers for this important transition.

"Transition of care" is the preparation of teenagers and young adults to become more involved in their own healthcare, help them learn how to make medical decisions, and eventually assist them in a planned move from pediatric healthcare providers to adult providers. Most teens don't switch doctors until they are young adults, but starting to prepare them earlier can be helpful. While starting these conversations at 12-13 years old may seem early, it helps get children more involved and feel better about the upcoming change.

Below are some goals to help children start to feel confident about being involved in their health as they grow.

Ages 12-15:

1. Practice talking to the doctor on their own. Whether discussing a new concern or asking a question about their health, it can be scary to have to talk to a provider for the first time. Practicing with their family before an upcoming appointment can be helpful. Practice makes it easier!
2. Talk to caregivers about their medical history. It’s important for teens to learn the answers to questions like: Have they ever been in the hospital? Are there any diseases that run in the family? Do they have any allergies? These are good to know so when they see a doctor alone, they will know important information to help provide better medical care.
3. Learn what their medications are for and how to take them. Talk about when it would be good to become involved in taking medication by themselves. If it's not safe to take medications on their own yet, try to get them involved in remembering when and how to take their medications.

Ages 16-21:

1. Make a doctor's appointment. Teens can work with caregivers on picking a good time for an appointment. The number for scheduling at Nationwide Children's Hospital is (614) 722-6200.
2. Practice filling a prescription. Have teenagers go with you to the pharmacy next time they have a new medication. They can give the pharmacy their name and birthdate to find the medication and ask the pharmacist any questions they have.
3. Talk about health insurance. Show them their insurance card. If they are planning to go to college or move out, make sure they have a copy to take along.
4. Sign up for MyChart. Did you know that adolescents can have their own MyChart login? This means that they, as well as caregivers, can message their doctor with questions, make appointments, and view results on their own.

We are excited to help our adolescent and young adult patients learn more about their health! Setting them up for success from the start will help keep them healthy for years to come and continue the healthy lifestyle families have created.

For more information, talk to your doctor or go to GotTransition.org or www.cap4kids.org/columbus/teens/transition.